Mortal Kombat II (R)
Age 16+
Lots of language and gory action in solid sequel.
“Mortal Kombat II,” like its 2021 predecessor, is a fantasy action-adventure based on the popular video game series. Expect lots of intense fighting, with punching, kicking, slamming and weapon usage (blades, hammers, a staff). Gory scenes show characters being stabbed, impaled and sliced to bits. Heads are smashed, fingers are severed, a character is eviscerated by a spinning blade and blood sprays. Strong language includes many uses of “f—,” “c—,” “s—,” “a–hole,” “goddamn” and “son of a b—-,” plus middle finger gestures. Sex-related dialogue includes references to a sex toy, “threesomes” and “foursomes.” Characters drink whiskey and beer. (116 minutes)
Available in theaters.
The Sheep Detectives (PG)
Age 8+
Cozy mystery deals with inclusion, loss and the power of memory.
This charming mystery, based on a novel by Leonie Swann, follows a flock of sheep determined to solve the murder of their beloved shepherd (Hugh Jackman). Although the story centers on a killing (and a body is shown), the violence largely takes place offscreen (with the exception of a couple of fights between animals). Dogs chase sheep, humans use a butcher knife and a stun gun, and there’s talk of poison. Adults drink wine and whiskey, and language includes “damn,” “crap,” “idiot” and “shut up.” The flock is led by Lily (voiced by Julia Louis-Dreyfus), who’s determined, brave and resourceful. The sheep demonstrate the importance of teamwork, perseverance and going outside your comfort zone. The story argues that our memories keep loved ones alive, and that you should always make room for others in your flock. (109 minutes)
Available in theaters.
Lord of the Flies (TV-MA)
Age 14+
A beautiful, bloody and intense adaptation of the classic novel.
This limited series adapts William Golding’s 1954 novel about English schoolboys struggling to survive on an island after a plane crash. This version doesn’t shy from depicting the book’s violent content: There are dead bodies (including the bloody, fly-swarmed corpse of the plane’s pilot), and characters are killed in shocking ways. A pig is stabbed and clubbed to death as it screams piteously, and we see a dead pig with a bloody hunk missing. Young students are in frequent mortal danger from fire, starvation, falling — and each other. There’s no romance, but characters are dressed only in shorts. Language includes “a–” and lots of insulting language: “fatty,” “piggy,” “pathetic,” etc. Characters scare one another with stories of a mythical beast. (Four episodes)
Available on Netflix.
Wowsabout (NR)
Age 3+
Nature special inspires curiosity and exploration.
This wonderful musical special celebrates the great outdoors. City pig Ronald (voiced by John Tartaglia) meets Roxy (Dorien Davies), a country hedgehog, as they explore Sequoia National Park in California. While they have different ways of going about their adventure, the animals discover that doing it together is the most rewarding part. The special has themes of tolerance, respect for differences and appreciation for your surroundings. It also inspires curiosity, and may encourage young kids to get outside and explore. (27 minutes)
Available on PBS Kids.
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